roiyoshida

[roiyoshida]

HE REALLY IS JUST LIKE HIS NII-CHAN 😭🥺🫶

[roiyoshida]

someone save my boy

based on this post by @habibisagi

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"Trimming Away The Distance" : Chapter 24

It was raining again.

Not the kind of stormy, crashing rain that demanded attention—but soft, persistent, silver rain that tapped gently against the windows and wrapped the world in a hush. Y/n sat curled up in Rin’s room by the window, an old book in her hands, legs tucked up against her chest. Outside, the streets shimmered with puddles, the sky muted and low.

Rin sat nearby on the floor, hunched over his homework, brows furrowed in focus. His hoodie sleeves were pushed up to his elbows, his damp hair falling over his eyes from the earlier shower. Every now and then, he’d glance at her—so still, so absorbed—and then quickly look back at his notes like he hadn’t.

She turned a page slowly, then paused. “Rin.”

He looked up.

She squinted at him, then tilted her head. “Your hair’s getting too long again.”

He blinked. “Is it?”

She reached out without asking, brushing a few wet strands off his forehead. “You’re starting to look like you got lost in a forest.”

A small smile tugged at his lips. “Should I cut it?”

“I’ll do it,” she said, already standing. “Where’s the kit?”

Rin didn’t question it. He just got up and retrieved a small trimmer set from the bathroom. When he came back, she’d settled in the middle of the room with a towel over her lap.

“Come on,” she gestured. “I’ll make you handsome again.”

He sat between her legs, cross-legged, while she gently draped the towel around his shoulders. Her fingers moved through his hair with practiced ease—soft, tugging slightly, fingertips brushing his scalp. Rin stayed impossibly still. His heart thudded loudly in his ears, but outside, the rain muted everything else.

“This okay?” she asked softly.

He nodded.

She trimmed slowly, carefully, pausing every now and then to brush the stray hairs from his forehead. “You know,” she murmured, “you used to have such a pouty baby face. Big eyes, round cheeks. So cute.”

He huffed. “I’m still cute.”

She laughed. “You are. But now you’re… more. Like, jawline? Hello?” Her voice had slipped lower, more thoughtful, like she’d spoken without thinking.

Rin froze—but only for a second.

Then, just as she reached to brush more strands from his temple, their hands touched—just barely. A brush of fingers, a pause in breath. She didn’t move away. Her hand lingered, fingertips barely grazing his cheek.

Neither of them said anything.

Once she was done, he stood and turned to her. His fringe was neater now, his features more visible. She stared at him for a moment longer than necessary.

“Better,” she whispered.

A few minutes later, they found themselves back by the window, both watching the rain again. But this time, their hands were beside each other. Close. Almost touching.

Almost.

And then—it happened.

Her fingers brushed his. Slowly. Deliberately. She didn’t pull away.

Instead, she leaned her head onto his shoulder.

Rin exhaled, so softly it barely counted.

He stayed perfectly still, afraid to move, afraid the moment might disappear.

Outside, the rain kept falling.

Inside, something bloomed. Quietly. Undeniably.

And neither of them said a word.

The rain didn’t stop.

If anything, it deepened—soaking the world outside in rhythm, in hush. Time felt like it slowed inside Rin’s room, wrapped in muted light and the smell of petrichor drifting in through the open window.

Y/n didn’t lift her head from his shoulder.

She didn’t need to.

Rin stayed still beside her, barely breathing. His eyes flicked to the way her fingers were now loosely tangled with his. Not holding. Just… resting there. Warm. Real.

His hoodie sleeves were soft and worn. She curled into them a little more. Inch by inch, she leaned in until her side was pressed fully to his, her cheek resting against his upper arm now.

Rin turned his head slightly, enough to catch the crown of her hair. Her shampoo smelled like something soft and citrusy. Familiar.

The book she’d been reading slipped from her lap to the floor with a quiet thud. Neither of them moved to pick it up.

Instead, Y/n shifted just a bit more—curling her legs across the length of the window bench, and with barely a sound, nestled herself under Rin’s arm.

His heart thudded.

Loudly. Painfully.

But he didn’t speak. Didn’t dare.

He just moved, careful and slow, and wrapped that arm around her, fingers brushing over the fabric of her sleeve as he tucked her against his side. Her breath hitched for half a second—but she didn’t move away.

She only relaxed more. Sighed.

His chin came to rest lightly against the top of her head. And there it was—that quiet kind of intimacy he’d never had before. No need for words, no jokes to cover it up. Just the soft thump of his heart, the weight of her body against his, and the rain humming like a lullaby on the glass.

Y/n’s hand was still in his. Her fingers tightened slightly.

He closed his eyes.

And for the first time in a while, everything felt still. Easy. Like this—whatever this was—belonged.

Y/n didn’t say a word. Didn’t need to. Her body had already said everything when she leaned into him, her breathing softening against his side like a rhythm he’d always known.

Rin stayed still.

Every instinct screamed to not move, not ruin this—whatever this was. His arm stayed looped around her, steady and loose, cradling her without pressure. Her head rested just beneath his collarbone now, the tips of her hair brushing the base of his throat.

She shifted once more.

Then… nothing.

Her hand, which had been so gently tangled with his, went slack. Her breath slowed.

He glanced down, carefully—like even looking might wake her—and saw her eyes closed. Peaceful. Completely, entirely asleep.

Something bloomed in his chest. Not excitement, not nervousness. Something softer. Heavier.

He exhaled, finally letting himself lean back just a bit more against the wall behind them, taking her weight with him. One hand slowly came up, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face, and his fingers lingered for just a moment longer than they should’ve.

She didn’t stir.

The rain still fell. Steady, slow, silver against the glass.

And Rin sat there—her heartbeat pressed to his ribs, her breath against his skin—thinking about how he’d give anything to hold this moment forever. To stay in this stillness where she felt safe enough to fall asleep against him. Where she trusted him without needing him to say a single word.

His thumb grazed the back of her hand once. Thoughtless. Gentle.

She murmured something, half-dreamed, and shifted even closer, her face now nestled into his chest. Rin blinked hard—because it was too much. Too much to feel this close to her. Too much to be the one holding her like this.

And yet, not enough.

He lowered his head slightly, letting his cheek brush against her hair. A quiet sigh escaped him.

“I’ll stay right here,” he whispered, even though she couldn’t hear.

And he did.

He didn’t move. Not when his leg went numb. Not when the light outside dipped lower. Not even when his stomach growled.

Because she was asleep. Because her breathing was warm on his neck.

Because she was Y/n.

And he was completely, hopelessly hers.

---

She stirred a little in his arms—not jolting awake, just shifting like her body was slowly coming back into itself. Her lashes fluttered, breath catching, before she blinked up at him.

“…Rin?”

“Yeah.” His voice was low. Careful. “Sorry. Did I wake you?”

She rubbed at her eyes and sat up a little, frowning softly. “No… I think I passed out.”

He gave a small smile, but there was something tired behind it. His hand slipped from hers slowly, like it didn’t want to.

“I should head home,” she mumbled, voice still heavy with sleep as she started to sit up.

Rin didn’t move.

Then, almost too quietly: “Stay?”

She paused.

“What?”

He looked down at his lap, brows pulled in. “Just… for a while. I don’t wanna be alone tonight.”

Her heart thudded at the way he said it. Not with drama, not as a plea. Just simple. Raw. Honest.

She watched him for a second, then slowly sat back down beside him. “Alright,” she said, her voice soft but firm. “But—”

He looked up, hope blooming in his eyes.

“—only if we order food,” she said, poking him in the side. “You’re clearly hungry.”

He chuckled, low and hoarse. “Deal.”

“And,” she added, stretching her arms over her head, “I’m not sleeping in jeans on this couch again. You better find me something comfortable.”

“I can lend you a t-shirt.”

“Only if it’s soft and smells like you,” she teased, then blinked like she hadn’t meant to say that aloud.

Rin’s ears turned pink.

She looked away too, clearing her throat. “Also… I’m choosing the movie.”

He smiled again, warmer this time. “I don’t mind.”

She nudged her shoulder against his. “Of course you don’t. You’re just glad I stayed.”

He didn’t deny it.

He didn’t say anything.

Just looked at her like she was something he hadn’t figured out how to deserve yet.

And for the rest of the night—wrapped in borrowed clothes, the faint glow of a screen flickering across sleepy eyes, their legs tangled somewhere between accidental and intentional—Rin didn’t feel alone.

Not even for a second.

Author’s Note: I’m caught up with finals this week, so I might be a little slower with updates. Thank you so much for being patient with me!

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"Haunt Me Like One of Your Button-Ups" : Chapter 23

It started off normal. Just a “Hey, want to get out of the city for a bit?” text from Rin on a lazy Sunday morning. Y/n blinked at her phone, half-asleep, debating. And then: Why not? She needed air, something different. Maybe a break from the books, the noise in her head.

Rin showed up an hour later in a hoodie and sneakers, holding two energy drinks and a crooked smile.

“Let’s go,” he said, and just like that, they were on a train out to nowhere in particular—just a small town with some greenery, a lake, and one very suspicious hand-painted sign that read:

“HAUNTED HOUSE - THIS WAY”

Y/n blinked. “You’re joking.”

“I would never,” Rin said, very seriously, already steering her toward the gravel path.

“You love horror stuff, don’t you?” she muttered under her breath.

He grinned. “I want to see if you can handle it.”

Inside, it was dim and slightly stuffy, with the smell of old paint lingering in the air. Animatronic ghosts creaked from the ceiling. The floor groaned under their steps. A zombie figure suddenly lunged out from behind a curtain—Rin barely reacted, while Y/n yelped and instinctively grabbed his arm.

He glanced down at where her fingers dug into his sleeve. “Oh? You do need me to protect you, huh?”

She punched his shoulder with her free hand, refusing to let go of his arm. “Shut up.”

But then it got worse. The haunted house had those weird pitch-black corridors where you had to feel your way through the dark, and Rin ended up ahead, pulling her gently by the wrist while she stumbled behind him, occasionally bumping into his back.

At one point, a strobe light flashed and something dropped from the ceiling—an animatronic demon or maybe a really committed staff member. Y/n yelped and instinctively pressed into Rin’s side, arms tight around his waist.

He froze for a second.

Then slowly wrapped one arm around her shoulders, protective, steady.

“It’s just fake,” he murmured, his voice lower, closer to her ear than it had ever been. “You’re okay.”

She nodded against him, feeling the way his heart beat just a little faster.

They made it out without further embarrassment, and when they stepped into the sun again, Rin didn’t pull away from her immediately. She did, though, brushing her hair behind her ear and muttering something about “you planned this, didn’t you?”

“I mean,” Rin said, that smug grin returning, “if you wanted to hold me, you could’ve just said so.”

She rolled her eyes, cheeks warm.

Later, by the lake, eating ice cream from a shady vendor, she nudged his foot with hers under the bench.

“Thanks,” she said quietly. “I needed this.”

Rin looked at her—hair a little wind-mussed, smile soft, face calm for once.

“Me too.”

---

After the haunted house and a lakeside snack, they passed by a shopping mall on the way to the train station. The kind with glass walls and escalators and glitzy store lights that made everything look more expensive than it probably was.

“Hey,” Y/n said suddenly, tugging at Rin’s sleeve.

He turned. “Hm?”

She looked him up and down. “You wear the same three hoodies. We’re fixing that.”

Rin frowned. “They’re fine.”

“You look like you rob vending machines for a living,” she deadpanned.

“…What does that even mean?”

But she was already dragging him inside.

What followed was chaos.

She picked clothes off racks like it was a mission. Shoved them into his arms. Dragged him into a changing room and stood outside like a tyrant, knocking the door every few minutes with, “Show me!”

The first few outfits? Meh.

But then came a button-up shirt—slate grey, a perfect fit. Black trousers. She leaned against the doorframe, waiting.

When Rin stepped out, she blinked.

Then blinked again.

Then stared.

“What?” Rin asked, fidgeting. “Too much?”

Y/n opened her mouth, closed it, then coughed and looked away. “You—uh. No. It’s good. It’s… shockingly good.”

He raised a brow, suspicious. “You’re blushing.”

“I’m not.”

“You are.”

“I just didn’t expect you to look like a damn model, okay? Shut up and go try the next one.”

By the fourth outfit, she was flustered and hiding it terribly. Rin, of course, was beginning to enjoy this way too much.

“You sure this one’s not too tight?” he asked, stretching a bit in a dark blue knit.

“Nope,” she said, voice higher than usual. “It’s perfect. You’re keeping that.”

He looked at the price tag and winced. “Yeah, no.”

But she was already handing her card to the cashier.

“Y/n.”

“You’re not arguing with me. Consider it an investment in not being a fashion disaster.”

He muttered something under his breath, ears tinged pink.

As they walked out with two shopping bags in hand, Rin glanced at her, quieter now.

“…Thanks,” he said. “For all of this. It was kind of fun.”

She smiled up at him. “You clean up really well, Itoshi.”

He smiled back—soft, a little shy.

“You’re the only person I’d let boss me around like this.”

She bumped into his shoulder, gently. “Because you like me.”

“…I do,” he said.

She paused.

Eyes met.

Nothing more was said in that moment—but the air between them? It buzzed.

Like something was changing. Slowly. Undeniably.

---

The train back was nearly empty—just the hum of soft conversations, neon lights blurring past the windows, and that occasional jolt of the track underneath.

They slid into a window seat together, the shopping bags tucked near Rin’s legs. Y/n let out a soft sigh and stretched a little, then rested her head back against the cool glass.

“You tired?” he asked, glancing at her sideways.

She nodded. “A little. Your fashion show drained me.”

He gave her a lopsided smile. “You didn’t have to do all that.”

“I wanted to,” she said, eyes still closed.

Silence again—comfortable, easy.

And then, slowly, she turned her head from the glass… and rested it on his shoulder.

Rin froze.

Not dramatically. Just the kind of freeze where your whole body goes still because if you move too fast, you’ll break the moment.

Her hair brushed his jaw, the faint smell of her shampoo—something floral and warm—wrapped around him.

“I’ll only lean for a little while,” she murmured. “Just till the next stop.”

He didn’t answer. He couldn’t.

Instead, he reached down, hesitantly, and began to fidget with the sleeve of her sweater—just lightly, the way you do when your hands need somewhere safe to go. He didn’t even realize he was doing it at first.

And she didn’t move.

In fact, after a few minutes, her hand drifted gently to his—their fingers brushing for a second that stretched into forever.

He glanced down.

She didn’t look at him, but she didn’t pull away either.

So he let his pinky curl around hers.

And they just sat there.

Two silhouettes framed by the low glow of the train lights. Not saying anything. Not needing to. Hearts beating louder than the train tracks ever could.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"Grocery Run with Her" : Chapter 22

The room was softly lit as the dim glow of the fading evening light filtered through the window. Rin stirred first, his body still a little sluggish from the fever, but the familiar warmth of Y/n lying next to him made the whole world seem like it had slowed down. Her presence was comforting, and it made his heart feel lighter.

He blinked, glancing over at her. She was still asleep, her head resting peacefully on the pillow beside him. He watched her for a moment, feeling the closeness between them, and couldn’t help but smile softly. There was a certain calmness in the way she breathed, the way her hair fanned out on the pillow, and it made everything feel more right than it ever had before.

She stirred and groggily sat up, rubbing her eyes. “Oh, looks like we slept for the entire evening,” she mumbled, stretching her arms. Rin yawned in response, sitting up slowly, his body still sore, but definitely feeling better.

After a few moments, Y/n glanced at him with a thoughtful expression. “I need to go grocery shopping,” she said, her tone casual. “Want anything?”

Rin’s eyes lit up, and he quickly shook his head. “I’ll go with you.”

Y/n raised an eyebrow, giving him an amused smile. “You don’t have to come, you know? I can manage.”

He crossed his arms stubbornly, his tone firm but playful. “I’m not letting you go alone. You know how much you buy. I’ll help.”

Y/n chuckled softly, still unsure. “You don’t have to. You’re still recovering.”

But Rin didn’t budge, and there was something in his eyes that made her give in. “Fine,” she sighed. “But I'll carry the heavy stuff.”

The evening air was cool as they walked to the convenience store. Rin felt a strange mix of calm and excitement, like they were more than just friends. It was one of those mundane moments that, somehow, felt special. Walking beside her, sharing this quiet task—grocery shopping—felt oddly intimate. As they entered the store, Rin couldn’t shake the feeling that they were acting like a couple, going about their regular weekly errands.

Y/n grabbed a basket and started filling it with the essentials—fruits, vegetables, and snacks. Rin was right beside her, occasionally picking up a random item, adding it to the basket without much thought. The conversation was easy, lighthearted, and yet, there was something almost comforting about the way they moved around the aisles together.

As they wandered, Rin couldn’t help but remember something from his past, a memory that snuck up on him unexpectedly. He thought of his childhood—how his mom used to take him and Sae for grocery shopping. Back then, it was always chaotic, the three of them darting between aisles, with his mom trying to keep both of them in check. He could almost hear his mom’s voice, calling out to them to stop fooling around.

But now, as he stood in the same kind of store, beside Y/n, he felt something completely different. The atmosphere was calmer, quieter. He realized that, in a way, this felt like those moments of his childhood, but with Y/n. She had the same focus, the same presence that his mom had when she went shopping. But this time, it was just the two of them. No one else. Just them.

He glanced over at Y/n, who was scanning the shelves for something. The way she moved, the way she held herself, was so different from the playful, carefree girl he had known. She was grown-up, serious at times, but still warm and caring. As he watched her, his heart fluttered slightly. He could easily picture her in his future—helping him with grocery shopping, sharing lazy Sunday mornings together, building a life.

She looked up, catching him staring for a moment. “What are you thinking about?” she asked, raising an eyebrow.

Rin blinked, startled, and then shrugged, a grin tugging at the corner of his lips. “Just thinking this feels kind of like… you and me, grocery shopping together. Like we’re a couple.”

Her expression softened, and she laughed quietly. “Oh, I don’t know about that. We’re just getting groceries, Rin.”

Rin felt his heart skip a beat, but he forced a nonchalant smile. “Yeah, but it’s nice, isn’t it? Just doing something simple together.”

Y/n looked at him for a second, her eyes twinkling with a playful, knowing glint. “I guess so,” she replied, a little quieter this time.

As they walked toward the checkout counter, Rin couldn’t help but feel the weight of the moment. It was just an ordinary errand, but to him, it felt different. Every little detail—the way she reached for the same product he was thinking of, how they both instinctively split up tasks, the little glances they shared when they thought the other wasn’t looking—it all added up.

And as they left the store, bags in hand, Rin was reminded of his mom’s voice again, though this time, it was different. It wasn’t the chaos of a childhood memory, but the quiet comfort of a present that felt like it had the potential to become something more.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"Between Heartbeats" : Chapter 21

After a while, Rin finally felt his strength returning. His fever had broken, and the grogginess was slowly melting away. He lay back on his bed, propped up on pillows, his PS5 controller in his hand as he played a game to kill time. But his thoughts kept drifting back to everything that had happened over the past few days.

Y/n had been there for him—steadfast and caring—when he’d felt weak, when he couldn’t even get out of bed. She had washed his hair with such gentleness, the way her fingers had massaged his scalp sending waves of warmth through him. That moment, the way she looked at him as she did it, had felt so personal, so intimate.

He smiled softly to himself as he thought about how she had so easily made him feel at ease, how she’d brushed his hair back from his forehead, checked his temperature, and stayed by his side through the night. He hadn’t even realized how much he had needed someone—someone like her—until she was there.

And then there was the kiss. The forehead kiss. It had been a soft, fleeting moment, but it had hit him harder than anything else. She had bent down, her lips gently pressing against his forehead, and it had felt like everything had stopped for just a moment. The world outside the room, the noise in his head, all of it had disappeared, and he could only focus on the feeling of her warmth, her care.

As the game loaded, Rin couldn’t stop replaying it in his head. The tenderness in her touch, the way she had taken care of him like he was something fragile. He had been so vulnerable, and she hadn’t hesitated to be there for him—no questions asked.

His heart skipped a beat. He shook his head slightly, trying to focus on the game in front of him. But no matter how hard he tried to immerse himself in the screen, his mind kept drifting back to Y/n.

Was this what it felt like to be in love?

Rin paused the game, his hands still clutching the controller, but he wasn’t paying attention to it anymore. His thoughts kept circling back to her. The way her eyes softened when she was near him, the way she took care of him without question. He had always admired her, but now, it felt different. It wasn’t just admiration anymore—it was something deeper. Something he wasn’t quite ready to admit to himself yet.

He glanced over at Y/n, who had curled up beside him on the bed. She had told him to wake her up if he needed anything, but for now, she was peacefully lying there, resting, her breathing slow and steady. She looked so serene, so beautiful.

Rin’s chest tightened as he watched her, a strange warmth spreading through him. He couldn’t remember the last time he felt so connected to someone. He wanted to keep her close, wanted to protect her, and yet, he felt like there was something more between them, something unspoken, and he didn’t know how to bring it up.

His gaze lingered on her for a moment longer, his fingers still lightly gripping the controller. The game was forgotten now, just a distant background noise. There was a knot in his stomach, a pull towards her, but he didn’t know how to put his feelings into words.

He glanced down at her, his heart skipping a beat as she shifted slightly in her sleep, her head resting on the pillow beside him. Rin quietly moved closer to her, not wanting to wake her, but wanting to be near her.

He had cared about her for a long time—longer than he ever admitted even to himself—but now, something was changing. The way she looked at him, the way she stayed by his side… it felt different, deeper. A part of him wanted to say something, to finally tell her how much she meant to him. But he hesitated—unsure if she felt it too, unsure of how crossing that line might change everything between them.

For now, he would just be content with being there, by her side. As long as she was with him, he knew he could face anything.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"I'm Here, Rin" : Chapter 20

The morning light was soft, filtering through the curtains in Rin’s room. His fever had broken, but he still looked exhausted, his body too weak to get out of bed on his own. Y/n sat beside him, brushing his damp hair back with a gentle hand. She felt a deep sense of care, a protective instinct she hadn’t known existed inside her before.

He stirred, blinking up at her, his tired eyes slightly unfocused. He must have been too delirious last night to even know she was by his side, but now, he was aware.

“You don’t have to stay,” Rin whispered, his voice hoarse and low. “You’ve already done enough.”

Y/n smiled softly, shaking her head. “Not yet,” she said, her voice steady. “You’re still not feeling well. And I’ll make sure you’re better.”

She stood up, the familiar sense of urgency now replaced with a calm determination. She wanted him to rest completely, and that meant taking care of everything—every little detail.

“I’m going to give you a bath,” she said gently, her gaze softening as she looked at him. “You need to freshen up.”

Rin tried to sit up but winced from the weakness in his body. “I… I can do it myself…” he protested weakly, but Y/n could see the exhaustion etched across his face.

“No,” she said firmly but kindly. “You’re not in any condition to. Just relax. I’m here.”

There was a brief silence before Rin slowly nodded, surrendering to her care.

Y/n helped him sit up and, with the utmost care, guided him to the bathroom. Rin’s body was still slightly unsteady, his steps slow, but with Y/n’s support, he made it. She turned on the water in the tub, ensuring it was warm but not too hot—just enough to soothe his aching muscles and comfort him.

Once the water was ready, she helped him step into the tub, making sure he was steady before letting him lower himself down. The warm steam filled the room, the scent of soap and lavender mixing with the natural fragrance of Rin’s damp skin. Y/n stood at the edge of the tub, her hands hovering for a moment before gently pushing his wet hair back from his face.

Rin closed his eyes for a brief moment, letting himself relax under the warmth. Y/n could feel the intensity of the moment—he was so vulnerable, so raw, and it made her heart ache in a way she hadn’t expected.

“You’re okay,” she said softly, her voice a gentle murmur as she took a cloth and began washing his body. Her movements were slow and deliberate, taking her time with each pass of the cloth across his skin. Rin didn’t protest, allowing her to take care of him without a word. She was meticulous, careful not to touch him in ways that would make him uncomfortable, but the intimacy of the act was undeniable. She was holding his well-being in her hands, as fragile as it seemed.

Y/n felt a strange mix of emotions rise within her. She was giving him more than just physical care; she was offering him her time, her attention, and her love in a way that was so subtle yet profound. Each stroke, each motion was a promise—that she would always be there, no matter how weak or strong he was.

When she finished cleaning his back and shoulders, she gently cupped his chin, tilting his head back slightly. “I’m going to wash your hair now,” she said softly, her voice steady but gentle. Rin nodded, closing his eyes again.

She leaned over the tub, reaching for the shampoo. With careful fingers, she worked the lather into his hair, massaging his scalp gently, watching his eyes flutter closed in response. The movement was slow, soothing, and she found herself lingering a little longer than necessary, savouring the closeness. The steady rhythm of her fingers through his hair, the quiet sounds of water splashing—everything about the moment felt right.

As she rinsed the soap from his hair, Y/n’s gaze lingered on him, watching how vulnerable he looked, how he was allowing himself to be taken care of. There was something almost sacred in this act, and she knew that he wasn’t just a boy she cared for anymore. She was starting to realize just how deeply her feelings for him had grown.

Rin let out a soft sigh as she finished rinsing his hair, his body relaxing in the tub. He reached up, wiping his face with the back of his hand before looking up at her. There was a vulnerability in his eyes that made her heart skip a beat.

“Thank you,” he whispered, his voice low and sincere. “I don’t know what I would do without you.”

Y/n smiled softly, a small but genuine smile that reached her eyes. She couldn’t help but reach out, resting a hand on his shoulder. “You don’t need to thank me,” she said quietly. “I’m always going to be here, Rin.”

Rin’s eyes searched hers for a moment, and in that instant, Y/n could feel something shift between them—something that had always been there but had never been fully acknowledged. She wasn’t just taking care of him as a friend. She was beginning to understand that there was so much more to what she felt for him. The walls she had built around her emotions, the hesitations—everything felt like it was falling away in that moment.

She helped him out of the bath, carefully wrapping a towel around his shoulders. She led him back to his room and made him lie back down on the bed, making sure he was comfortable before sitting beside him.

“Just rest,” she said softly, brushing a few strands of hair from his forehead. “You’ve been through a lot.”

Rin’s tired eyes met hers again, and there was a small, vulnerable smile on his face. “I don’t think I could’ve made it through this without you.”

Y/n leaned down slightly, pressing a soft kiss to his forehead, her lips lingering for a moment. It wasn’t anything grand or romantic—not yet—but it was the kind of kiss that spoke volumes about her care for him. She pulled back slowly, and for the first time, Rin’s gaze softened in a way that made her chest tighten.

“I’m here, Rin. Always.”

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"In The Quiet, She Stayed" : Chapter 19

It was an ordinary evening—except it wasn’t.

Y/n was standing at the entrance of her apartment, glancing at her phone, waiting for Rin’s usual text or call to meet up for their nightly walk. It was something they’d done for months—those quiet moments together, walking through the city, talking about everything and nothing.

But tonight, there was nothing.

Y/n frowned, her heart sinking. He hadn’t said anything, and his usual texts had stopped coming in the afternoon. She checked the time. It was already late—too late for Rin not to show up. She quickly slipped her jacket on and headed to his place, her pace quickening as worry began to creep into her mind.

When she arrived at Rin’s house, she rang the doorbell, then knocked on the door a few more times, feeling increasingly uneasy. There was no answer.

“Rin?” she called softly, her heart racing. He always answered when she came over, even if he was busy. But this… this felt wrong. Her instincts told her something was off.

She tried the door handle, only to find it unlocked. She hesitated for a moment, then slowly pushed the door open. It was dark inside, the soft light of the lamps casting long shadows. Rin’s parents weren’t home—they were away on a business trip, and she knew that meant he was alone.

“Rin?” Her voice was a little louder now, echoing through the hallway. She made her way upstairs, her steps quiet on the wooden floor.

She stopped in front of his room, knocking gently. “Rin, are you in there?”

The door creaked open just slightly, and she caught sight of him through the small crack. Rin was lying in bed, his face flushed, his body wrapped in blankets. His normally sharp, confident features were drawn with exhaustion, and his usual smirk was replaced by a thin frown. He hadn’t answered her because he was clearly sick.

“Rin!” Y/n’s voice cracked with concern as she stepped into the room, her eyes scanning him with immediate worry. “What’s wrong? Why didn’t you say anything?”

He turned his head slowly to face her, his eyes tired but still warm. “I’m fine,” he muttered, his voice raspy and weak. “Just a fever.”

Y/n’s heart clenched. She knew Rin. He was never the type to admit he was struggling, to admit weakness. He was always so strong, so composed. But seeing him like this, so vulnerable, made her chest tighten with an unexpected protectiveness.

“You’re not fine,” she said, her voice soft but firm. “You’re sick, and you’re staying here alone? Rin, you should’ve called me.”

She moved to his side, pushing the blankets down gently, revealing his pale skin. His forehead was warm to the touch, and his eyes were glassy. Without a second thought, Y/n hurried to his bathroom and grabbed a thermometer. When she checked his temperature, it was clear—he had a high fever.

“I’m going to make you something to eat,” she said, trying to keep her tone steady, though her hands trembled slightly. “You need medicine. You’re not going anywhere.”

Rin just gave her a tired nod, unable to summon the energy to argue. Y/n hurried downstairs, her mind racing. She rummaged through his kitchen, pulling out ingredients to make something easy and soothing—soup, crackers, anything to settle his stomach and hydrate him. Her hands moved efficiently, despite the worry gnawing at her. When she was done, she brought the steaming bowl to his room and helped him sit up just enough to eat.

“Here,” she said softly, holding the spoon to his lips. “You need to eat something.”

Rin’s hand reached out weakly to hold the spoon, and as he did, their fingers brushed for a brief moment. Y/n froze, feeling the jolt of the contact shoot through her, but she didn’t acknowledge it. She simply focused on getting him to eat, to take his medicine, to feel better.

Once he’d eaten, she helped him lie back down, gently pulling the blankets around him. “I’m giving you some medicine to lower your fever,” she said softly, her voice gentle. “Stay still for a bit.”

After giving him the medicine, Y/n went to check on the laundry, picking up a fresh towel and taking it to the bathroom. When she returned, she found Rin still lying in bed, looking more exhausted than ever, but his expression was calmer. His fever was breaking, but he still looked pale and frail.

She sat on the edge of his bed, looking at him for a moment. He wasn’t the kind of person to ask for help, but he let her take care of him without complaint, and that spoke volumes. She reached out and placed a hand on his forehead again to check his temperature, her fingers brushing against his skin gently.

“You’re doing better,” she whispered, half to herself, half to him.

Later that night, after everything was quiet, she couldn’t bring herself to leave. She grabbed a pillow and settled down beside him on the floor, making sure he was comfortable, her eyes tracing the lines of his tired face. He didn’t ask her to stay. But she stayed anyway, and he let her.

Y/n watched him for a while, taking in the way he was always so guarded, always so independent. Tonight, though, Rin was vulnerable—bare, exposed. And she couldn’t ignore how deeply that touched her. She wanted to be there for him, just like he had always been there for her.

Eventually, as the night wore on, Rin stirred, his fever finally breaking, and he glanced at her through tired eyes. “You don’t have to stay,” he mumbled, his voice hoarse.

“I’m not leaving,” she whispered back, her voice steady. “I’m staying. I won’t leave you alone.”

And as he closed his eyes again, drifting into a more peaceful sleep, Y/n found herself slipping into an empty space beside him, curling up just a little bit closer, her breath steady and soft, just enough to remind him that she was there. That she cared.

The night passed in quiet solidarity, and Y/n stayed by his side. She wasn’t just there to take care of him—she was there because she needed him to know that she wouldn’t go anywhere.

She was there. She was always going to be there.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"I Owe You Coffee" : Chapter 18

The evening was still, a slight chill in the air as the two of them stepped into a small, quiet café at the corner of the street. It felt like a secret space, tucked away from the bustling world, as if it existed just for them. The soft hum of quiet conversation from a few distant tables faded into the background, leaving just the two of them — a rare kind of solitude that felt like it had always been meant for them.

Y/n had asked Rin to come for coffee, a simple invitation. But she was dressed differently today — a red-pink top that was fitted but still modest, the buttons perfectly aligned, and flared jeans that fit comfortably over her frame. The silver necklace she wore caught the light, adding a delicate shine to her appearance. She wore her glasses too, the ones she never usually wore around him. Rin hadn’t quite realized before, but now, sitting across from her, he found himself staring just a little longer than usual.

Her hair was softly falling over her shoulders, straightened neatly. There was something about the way she carried herself tonight, something different, but not in a way that drew attention — in a way that made Rin realize how little he’d noticed, how much he hadn’t yet seen.

She looked… just as she always did — warm, graceful, but in a way that tonight seemed to quietly hold his attention more.

“Hey,” Y/n said softly, breaking the comfortable silence. Her voice was calm, that familiar warmth in her tone. “You look good today.”

Rin blinked, caught off guard by the unexpected compliment. His eyes flicked down to his outfit — simple, but neat. “You too,” he replied, his voice softer than usual.

It wasn’t flirtatious. It was just… honest. A shared acknowledgement of each other in that moment.

They both leaned back into their seats, the coffee cups placed between them, steam rising lazily. The scent of freshly ground coffee filled the space around them, but neither of them felt the need to fill the silence with words. There was something about this moment — an unspoken understanding that didn’t require anything more than the quiet comfort of each other’s company.

They sat like that, the silence wrapped around them, more intimate than words could convey. Every once in a while, their eyes met — and then, quickly, they would look away, like it was a secret they didn’t want to acknowledge but couldn’t help but feel. It wasn’t awkward; it was peaceful. The kind of peace that came when you could just be with someone, no need to explain or justify.

Y/n took a small sip from her cup, her fingers brushing the porcelain. Her lips, slightly curved, looked almost distracted as her gaze lingered on the steam rising from the cup.

Rin’s gaze lingered on her, not in a way that felt intrusive, but in quiet appreciation. He noticed how her soft flared jeans hugged her shape, something he’d never really taken the time to notice before. For the first time, he saw how plump and soft she was, how her cheeks still held a hint of baby fat, giving her face a roundness that only deepened when she smiled. There was a balance to her — mature yet soft, wise yet approachable. Her glasses only added to that mature look, complementing the gentle fullness of her face.

His thoughts drifted back to when she was younger — skinnier then, but that wasn’t what stood out. What struck him was how different she was now. Back then, she was loud, bossy, always full of energy. But now, she was quiet, soft, grounded in a way he hadn’t noticed until now. It was like he was discovering a new side of her with every passing moment.

The silence between them felt comfortable, their quiet connection speaking louder than words ever could. They didn’t need to explain anything — everything was just understood.

And yet, in the space between them, there was a quiet depth. A knowing.

At one point, she smiled at him — the kind of smile that didn’t need a reason. Just a soft curve of her lips, the barest of expressions that made Rin’s chest tighten in the gentlest way. He smiled back without thinking, a moment where the world outside the café seemed to fall away.

She spoke again, but her voice was softer, as if she was savoring the moment just as much as he was.

“Sometimes, silence says more than words ever could,” she said, almost to herself.

Rin met her gaze again, not moving. For the first time, the weight of everything felt a little lighter.

It didn’t matter that they weren’t talking. They didn’t need to.

They just… understood.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"Pieces in Place" : Chapter 17

Y/n had spent the better part of the afternoon rearranging her apartment, preparing for the new additions she’d brought home — a second hand coffee table, a modest bookshelf, and a small two-seater couch, all carefully selected from a thrift shop tucked away on a quiet street. They weren’t perfect, but they had charm — and she liked that.

By the time Rin arrived, the sun was low in the sky, casting a golden hue across her living room.

“I didn’t think they’d be this heavy,” she said as she opened the door for him, her voice soft, almost apologetic.

Rin stepped in, taking in the carefully arranged boxes and tools. “You carried all this up here?”

She offered a quiet smile. “I had help from the delivery man. I bribed him with banana bread.”

He huffed a quiet laugh, but she was already turning away, moving slowly but surely through the space as if she had it all under control — calm, composed, and yet something about the way she asked him to come over felt almost… personal.

They got to work in companionable silence. She read instructions aloud in that gentle, soothing tone of hers, occasionally brushing a strand of hair behind her ear as she leaned over the manual. Rin mostly listened and followed her lead, surprising even himself with how easily he moved around her, how his usual edges softened in her space.

They were halfway through assembling the couch when the room went dark.

The lights flickered out in an instant, leaving only the quiet hum of the city beyond the windows.

Y/n stilled. “Oh,” she murmured. “Power’s out.”

“I’ll get the flashlight,” Rin said.

They ended up with one flashlight between them that worked properly and a phone flashlight for backup. The apartment was dim, quiet, wrapped in soft shadows.

“Should we stop for now?” Rin asked.

She shook her head gently. “We’ve come this far. Might as well keep going.”

And so they did — assembling furniture by flashlight, knees brushing as they leaned over diagrams, speaking more with glances and murmurs than full sentences. The world outside faded, and the quiet between them felt full rather than empty.

Around ten, her stomach gave a quiet grumble. Rin looked over.

“Are you hungry?”

“A little,” she admitted. “Do you mind going out for something quick?”

He was already grabbing his jacket.

The convenience store was lit in harsh fluorescent light, but there was something familiar about it — something warm in the mundane-ness of it all. Y/n picked a simple bowl of instant ramen and a sausage skewer, her choices thoughtful, unhurried.

At the counter, she reached for her wallet — but Rin had already handed over cash.

“Rin—”

“No,” he said simply.

She looked at him, something soft flickering behind her eyes. “You’re very stubborn.”

He didn’t look at her, just handed her the bag. “So are you.”

They ate on a bench just outside the store, quietly enjoying the meal. The night air was crisp, and Y/n pulled her sweater a little tighter around her arms. Rin noticed. Without a word, he shifted closer, shielding her from the breeze.

She didn’t comment, only looked down at her cup noodles and smiled to herself.

When they returned, the apartment lights were back on. They both paused at the door, surprised.

“Well,” Y/n said with a faint laugh, “that’s convenient.”

They worked until the sky outside began to lighten. Sometime after 4 AM, she dozed off on the nearly completed couch, curled up neatly with one arm under her head.

Rin turned to tell her something and found her fast asleep, features soft, completely at ease.

He reached for her phone, which she’d left nearby. He’d noticed her quietly taking photos throughout the evening — small moments she thought he wouldn’t catch. But now, it was his turn.

He took a single photo of her, sleeping under the warm lights, framed by the furniture they’d built together.

He set the phone back down without a sound.

Days later, she transferred the photos to her laptop, scanning through them idly. There were several of Rin — focused, frowning, brushing dust off a shelf. She smiled at all of them.

But it wasn’t until the very end that she saw it: a quiet picture of herself, fast asleep, blanket pulled halfway over her, the softest expression on her face.

She blinked. And blinked again.

“…Rin,” she whispered to herself.

Her cheeks warmed.

He never said a word about it.

But she closed her laptop with a smile.

And she kept the photo.

Y/n:

I owe you coffee.

Rin:

Oh… I’d really like that.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"When The Silence Speaks" : Chapter 16

The moon hung low in the sky, casting a soft glow on the quiet street as Rin and Y/n walked side by side. The night was cooler than usual, and the air carried a quiet stillness that invited contemplation. It was the perfect kind of night for one of their usual walks, but tonight, something felt different.

Y/n’s usual light-hearted demeanor was absent, replaced by a distant expression, her eyes focused on the ground as they walked. Rin, ever perceptive, noticed the change immediately.

“You okay?” he asked gently, his voice quieter than usual.

She hesitated, as if weighing whether to answer, before sighing deeply. Her shoulders slumped slightly as she stopped walking, staring at the ground. Rin, sensing her internal struggle, stopped beside her and waited patiently, giving her the space she needed.

“I’m just… tired,” she said, her voice unusually soft. “I don’t know if I’m cut out for this whole thing. College, relationships… everything. I’m just… I keep messing things up.”

Rin didn’t respond immediately, only watching her carefully, giving her time to gather her thoughts. He knew she didn’t often share what was on her mind, especially when it came to deeper things. But tonight felt different—more raw.

Y/n took a deep breath, her voice trembling slightly as she spoke again, “I’ve been in relationships before… but they never turned out the way I thought they would. And now, I’m just afraid. Afraid that I’ll get hurt again, that I’ll end up trusting the wrong person.”

Rin felt a shift in the air, an emotional heaviness that made his heart tighten. He watched her closely, noticing how her hands fidgeted with the strap of her bag, how her shoulders were tense, like she was carrying a weight far heavier than she let on.

“Y/n…” he said softly, moving closer. “You don’t have to carry all of that by yourself.”

She looked up at him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “But it’s hard. I’m not the same after it. After everything… it just gets harder to trust people. To believe that someone won’t hurt me.” Her voice cracked, and in that moment, Rin felt an overwhelming urge to reach out to her, to comfort her.

Before he could think, he took a step closer, his hand hovering near her shoulder. He didn’t say anything at first, just stood there, trying to find the right words. When he finally spoke, his voice was quiet but steady.

“Not everyone is going to hurt you, Y/n,” Rin said, his words firm, but filled with a softness that only he could convey. “I’m not going anywhere. And if you ever need someone to talk to, I’ll be here. Always.”

She closed her eyes for a brief moment, as if gathering her thoughts, and then finally looked at him—really looked at him—for the first time that night. The raw emotion in her eyes caught him off guard, and for the first time, he realized how much she truly trusted him.

Tears welled up in her eyes, and she tried to blink them away, but they spilled over, one by one. She didn’t say anything at first, but the quiet sob that escaped her lips told Rin everything he needed to know.

Without a word, he moved closer and wrapped his arms around her gently, not hesitating, not second-guessing himself. She leaned into him, her face pressed against his chest as she let herself cry, her body shaking with the release of emotions she had kept locked away for so long. Rin held her close, feeling the weight of her vulnerability settle in his heart.

“You’re not alone,” Rin murmured, his voice almost a whisper. “I’m not going anywhere. You don’t have to carry it all alone.”

Y/n clung to him, not caring about the rain that had begun to fall or how they must have looked in that moment. She didn’t care about anything except the comfort of his presence, the safety she felt in his arms.

As she slowly began to calm down, her sobs turning into quiet sniffles, she pulled back slightly, just enough to look at him. Her eyes were red, but there was something softer there now—something warmer, more open.

“Thank you,” she whispered, her voice hoarse but genuine. “I don’t know why I always push people away… but you just…” She paused, looking up at him, almost as if seeing him for the first time in a new way. “You make it easier to be myself.”

Rin smiled softly, his hand gently brushing the damp strands of hair from her face. “You don’t have to hide anything from me,” he said quietly. “I’m always going to be here.”

And in that moment, Y/n realized just how much she relied on Rin. He wasn’t just the guy who walked her home or the friend who made her laugh. He was someone she trusted more than she had ever trusted anyone. And maybe, just maybe, he was someone who could make her believe that not all relationships were doomed to fail.

As they stood there in the rain, close but not quite knowing what to say next, they both felt something shift between them. Something unspoken, but undeniable. They were no longer just friends, not in the same way. Their connection had deepened in a way neither of them had expected, and neither of them knew where it was headed—but they both knew it was something they didn’t want to let go of.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"Low-Probability Collision" : Chapter 15

It was a quiet evening when Rin made his way toward the bookstore, the cool air of early spring making the usual evening walk feel a little more refreshing. He was just about to round the corner when he spotted her—Y/n, standing under the golden lights spilling from the front window of the bookstore, a paper bag tucked under her arm, her attention fixed on her phone.

He slowed instinctively, just watching her for a second. The way the light caught the curve of her cheek. The gentle sway of her hair in the breeze. She looked calm. Grounded. Like she belonged in this moment.

“Hey,” Rin called out as he approached, voice low but warm.

She looked up, and her face brightened with a familiar smile. “Hey. You’re early.”

He shrugged, falling into step beside her. “You’re the one standing outside a bookstore like some scene out of a movie. What’d you get?”

“Oh,” she said, holding up the bag. “Just a couple books. Mostly sci-fi. I’ve been meaning to start The Dark Forest .”

Rin tilted his head as he read the title. “That one with aliens or time travel or something?”

Y/n’s eyes lit up, and she pulled the book out like it was something precious. “Aliens, yeah—but not in the way you’re thinking. It’s the second book in the Remembrance of Earth’s Past trilogy. The first one’s called The Three-Body Problem . Have you ever heard of it?”

He shook his head, but his gaze didn’t leave her.

She hugged the book closer to her chest, her voice picking up softly as she began to explain. “Okay, so… the title refers to this unsolvable physics problem. Like, imagine a planet with three suns. There’s no stable orbit—so the climate is always changing wildly and unpredictably. Sometimes it’s stable for a while, but then one of the suns swings too close, and everything gets destroyed.”

Rin blinked slowly, trying to follow, but mostly just watching the way she talked with her hands. The way her eyes flicked upward when she was thinking.

She kept going, caught up in it. “So in the book, Earth contacts an alien civilization living on a planet like that. They’re called the Trisolarans. Their world is chaotic, violent. So when they find out Earth is peaceful and stable, they decide they want to come here. To take over.”

He raised a brow. “That’s kinda dark.”

“It gets darker,” she said, voice hushed like she was telling him a secret. “The aliens are 400 years away, traveling slowly. So humanity finds out about the invasion but can’t stop it. And that’s where the real tension starts—because everyone has different ideas about how to prepare. Some people welcome the aliens, some panic, and some… just want to destroy everything before the Trisolarans arrive.”

Rin let out a quiet whistle. “So it’s like… a slow apocalypse.”

“Exactly,” she said, nodding. “But it’s not just action. It’s philosophical, too. Like, there’s this whole part about how the universe is a ‘dark forest’—every civilization hiding in silence, afraid to make a sound. Because if you reveal your location, someone stronger might wipe you out before you become a threat.”

He went silent for a moment, processing. “So… don’t text aliens. Got it.”

Y/n laughed, bumping her shoulder against his. “Basically.”

Rin smiled a little, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. His gaze was still fixed on her, thoughtful. “You really like this stuff.”

“Yeah,” she admitted, suddenly a bit shy. “I know it sounds kind of out-there, but… I don’t know. I like stories that make the universe feel big. Mysterious. Like there’s so much we don’t understand yet.”

He nodded slowly, more to himself than anything. “You talk about it like it matters. Like it’s more than just fiction.”

She glanced at him, the edge of her smile softening. “Maybe it is.”

Rin didn’t know what to say to that. He wasn’t thinking about aliens or unstable planetary orbits—he was thinking about her voice, the way she looked lit up in the bookstore’s glow, explaining something complicated with such effortless passion.

He stuffed his hands deeper into his pockets. “Yeah. I didn’t get most of that… but I liked listening to you talk about it.”

Y/n blinked, thrown off by the sincerity in his voice. “What?”

“I said,” Rin repeated, not looking at her now, “I liked hearing you explain it. Even if I was completely lost by, like, minute two.”

She stared at him for a second too long, and then glanced away, suddenly very aware of how warm her cheeks felt.

“Oh,” she murmured. “Well… thanks.”

They stood there for a few seconds, the quiet wrapping around them again. The sounds of the street faded into background noise—just passing cars, the occasional chatter, a distant bark. But in their little corner of the world, it felt still.

“I should lend it to you sometime,” she said eventually, holding up The Dark Forest . “If you ever want to give it a try.”

Rin gave a faint smile, eyes flicking to the book and then back to her. “Maybe. But only if you promise to explain the weird parts.”

She grinned. “That’s most of it.”

He lightly chuckled, and they started walking side by side, slowly disappearing down the sidewalk, the warm bookstore lights behind them and something quieter, newer blooming between them.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"Lanternlight Confessions" : Chapter 14

The streets were alive with the glow of paper lanterns, each one flickering softly in the night breeze. The festival was in full swing—people wandering around, eating skewered meats, and laughing with friends. The sounds of traditional music filled the air, mixing with the chatter and excited voices.

Y/n and Rin had agreed to meet here, though they hadn’t expected the crowd to be so large. The night was warm, but there was an electric buzz in the air. It felt like the world was just a bit more magical tonight.

As they walked together through the maze of food stalls, Y/n couldn’t help but notice how different everything seemed with Rin at her side. She caught herself sneaking glances at him. The way he navigated the crowd, the way his eyes scanned their surroundings to make sure she was okay—it was like he was always so aware of her presence.

They stopped at a stall selling takoyaki, and as Y/n fumbled with her purse to pay, Rin reached for the food before she could. His fingers brushed against hers for a split second, and she froze.

Her heart skipped a beat.

She glanced up at him, but he didn’t seem to notice—his focus was entirely on the takoyaki in his hand. He handed her the bag, his fingers lightly grazing hers again.

“Thanks,” she muttered, her voice suddenly soft. She didn’t quite know why, but the small touches felt significant.

“No problem,” Rin replied, a little more distant than usual, but she could tell there was a slight flush to his cheeks. He quickly looked away, and they continued walking side by side, the tension between them thickening with every step.

As they walked further, they found themselves in a small, quieter part of the festival. The crowd had thinned, and the noise seemed farther away. There was an odd stillness that settled between them, and they found themselves walking a little closer, just by accident.

They passed beneath a lantern, the soft light casting shadows on their faces. The wind picked up slightly, causing the lanterns to sway gently. As Y/n pulled her jacket tighter around herself, Rin moved just a little bit closer, his shoulder brushing hers in the process.

Both of them froze for a moment.

Y/n tried to keep her breathing steady, pretending like it was nothing, but she felt the warmth from his body close to hers. It was like her heart was trying to catch up to her thoughts, racing faster than she expected.

“You alright?” Rin asked, glancing down at her. His eyes searched her face, and there was something soft in his gaze, something she couldn’t quite place.

“Yeah… I’m good,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. She realized how small her answer sounded compared to the pounding in her chest. She smiled nervously, hoping he didn’t notice how her cheeks were suddenly flushed.

Rin seemed to hesitate for a second before looking away. They kept walking, the silence between them growing a little more comfortable, but also heavier.

They reached a quieter spot near the edge of the festival, where the lights dimmed and the music faded. They stood near the edge of a small pond, watching the reflection of the lanterns dance in the water.

Y/n turned to look at Rin, and for the first time that night, their eyes met. Neither of them looked away.

The air between them felt electric, almost as if time had slowed down. It wasn’t just the festival that was beautiful anymore—it was the way Rin was standing there, in that quiet moment, close enough that she could feel the warmth of his body beside hers.

Rin’s gaze softened, his hand twitching slightly at his side as if he wanted to reach out but wasn’t sure if he should. The unspoken words hung in the air between them.

Y/n cleared her throat, suddenly feeling like her chest was too full. “I don’t think I’ve ever really… done something like this before,” she admitted, her voice small.

Rin tilted his head. “What do you mean?”

“Just… be with someone like this, I guess. I mean, we’ve been friends for so long, but it’s like… everything feels different tonight,” she confessed, feeling strangely vulnerable as the words left her mouth.

For a brief moment, Rin didn’t speak. He just stared at her, his expression unreadable. Then, after what felt like an eternity, he gave a small, quiet smile.

“Yeah,” he said, his voice steady, but his eyes betrayed something else. “I feel it too.”

The words hung in the air as the festival continued around them, the music swelling again in the distance, but for a moment, it was just the two of them—walking closer than they ever had before, hearts racing, unsure of where this would take them.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"Lobster and Other Things I Didn’t Plan For" : Chapter 13

Y/n sat on the couch, the weight of the day dragging her shoulders down. The lobster sat untouched on the kitchen counter, the plans she’d made with her friend lying in tatters. She had been looking forward to sharing the night with someone, but now it was just her and the overwhelming silence of the apartment.

Her phone rested in her hands, an open text from her friend telling her they couldn’t make it. Y/n let out a long, heavy sigh, feeling drained. She hadn’t wanted to cook the lobsters alone. She hadn’t wanted to sit alone.

A thought crossed her mind, fleeting but real: I wonder if Rin would help me.

She stared at his contact name. She’d called him for less, but tonight felt different. She wasn’t sure why—maybe because she was just tired of doing everything on her own.

She tapped his name and hit “call,” almost regretting it instantly. But then his voice came through, so casual, so familiar, and she couldn’t help but smile a little.

“Yo,” Rin answered, and she could hear the faint sound of background noise—probably school. “What’s up?”

“Hey, um…” Her voice softened. “My friend was supposed to come over, but they canceled. And, uh, I bought lobsters…” She chuckled lightly, a self-deprecating sound. “But I don’t think I can cook them by myself.”

There was a small pause before Rin responded, his tone shifting slightly, the care evident in his voice. “I can come over and help you.”

Y/n blinked, surprised at how easy that felt. “You’d do that?”

“Yeah, of course,” he replied simply—the words feeling like an unspoken promise. “I’ll be there soon.”

A few minutes later, Rin knocked on the door. She opened it, and there he stood—drenched from the rain, his hair sticking to his forehead, his jacket soaked through. But the moment his eyes met hers, she felt an unexpected flutter in her chest.

“Didn’t think you’d get here this quick,” she said, a little breathless.

He shrugged, stepping inside. “I was already on my way. Thought I’d beat the worst of the rain.”

As he passed her, she caught the faint smell of rain on him—something fresh and sharp. It made her heart skip just a little. They moved into the kitchen, Rin immediately getting to work, peeling back the lobster shells with ease. Y/n stood to the side, watching him as he moved, completely unaware of how her gaze lingered on him longer than it should have. The way his hands worked. The slight flex of his muscles when he reached for something. The way he looked so at home—so effortlessly comfortable in her space.

“So, what’s the deal with this lobster?” Rin asked, not looking up, but she could hear the teasing note in his voice.

She smiled softly. “It was supposed to be a fancy dinner. But clearly, that didn’t go as planned.”

Rin glanced up, his eyes softening. “Well, lucky for you, I’m here to save the day.”

Y/n chuckled, shaking her head. “I think you’re the one who needs saving.”

They continued cooking, but the air between them felt different now—charged in a way she couldn’t quite place. There was a softness in the way Rin moved, a gentleness she hadn’t noticed before. They were so close, her body brushing against his occasionally as they worked together, but neither of them pulled away.

As the meal came together, Rin handed her a plate, their fingers grazing as she took it. It felt like an electric jolt that she tried to ignore, but it lingered in her chest.

They sat down to eat. The silence was comfortable at first, but soon, Y/n found herself picking at her food, unable to focus. The weight of the day pressed on her, and she couldn’t hold it in anymore.

“Rin…” she started, her voice quieter now. She met his gaze, trying to force the words out. “I don’t know if I can do this anymore.”

Rin paused, his fork halfway to his mouth. “Do what?”

“College,” she whispered. “It’s… it’s wearing me down. Every day feels like a battle. I feel like I’m just… failing. I don’t have anyone I can talk to, and nothing’s clicking.” She laughed softly, but there was no humor in it. “I don’t even feel like I belong there.”

The words felt raw, like they’d been bubbling beneath the surface for so long—and finally, they were out.

Rin set down his fork, his eyes searching hers. “Y/n…” He didn’t finish the sentence, but there was something in his gaze—something deep and steady. He was thinking, weighing his words carefully. He knew, even without asking, that this was the weight she carried. And it hurt to see her like this.

“I don’t know how to make it better for you,” he said softly. “But I’m here. And I’m not going anywhere.”

Y/n felt the air leave her lungs. There was an aching vulnerability in the way he spoke—like he truly meant it, like he would be there through every part of this. He wasn’t just offering advice or empty words. He was offering something deeper.

“I don’t have anyone,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. “I feel like I’m so alone in all this.”

His gaze softened even more, and without thinking, he reached out—his hand gently resting on hers across the table. The touch was simple, but the warmth from his hand spread through her, calming the storm inside her chest.

“You’re not alone,” Rin said, his voice barely above a whisper. “Not anymore.”

Y/n’s heart skipped a beat, her breath catching in her throat. She had known Rin for a while now, but in that moment, he felt so different. He wasn’t the little brother she always thought of him as. He was… so much more.

She swallowed hard, staring at his hand over hers, and then slowly lifted her eyes to meet his. Something shifted in the space between them. An unspoken understanding. Something heavier than friendship.

She felt it in her chest, a quiet beat that matched the rhythm of his heart.

“Thanks, Rin,” she whispered, her voice breaking. “Really. You don’t know how much this means to me.”

He smiled softly, his eyes sincere. “I do.”

And for a brief moment, the world outside—college, the struggles, the pressure—faded into nothing. It was just her and Rin, sitting across from each other, the lobster forgotten, the evening stretching out in front of them like a new beginning.

The soft clink of their forks against their plates was the only sound. But the quiet was filled with something more—something neither of them could put into words.

Author Notes:  hey, sorry for the delay in updates! i’ve been a little under the weather and college has been a bit overwhelming lately. thank you for being patient with me!

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"The Way You Look Now" : Chapter 12

The night air was warm and damp, still heavy from an earlier drizzle. The pavement gleamed faintly under the streetlights, and the leaves above them shimmered from moisture. Y/n stood at their usual meeting spot, tugging her hoodie sleeves over her hands, eyes flicking toward the street.

Rin appeared a few seconds later, walking with the same casual pace, one hand shoved into his pocket, the other brushing damp hair out of his eyes.

“You just showered?” she asked, noticing the water still clinging to the ends of his bangs, the way his collar was a little wrinkled from being thrown on in a hurry.

“Yeah,” he said. “Didn’t want to miss the walk.”

She smiled. He always said it so simply, like showing up was the most natural thing in the world.

They fell into step, feet moving in sync down the quiet sidewalk. Crickets hummed. A car passed slowly. She glanced at him again—and this time, her eyes lingered a beat too long.

His jawline caught the light, sharp and clean beneath the wet strands of hair. His face had lost that baby roundness lately. There was more definition, more weight to his features.

She let out a breath, a little laugh. “I miss the you from a few years ago.”

Rin turned, surprised. “What?”

“You know,” she said, nudging his arm with hers. “When your face was still pouty. Big eyes. You were always sulking when I made you study.”

He rolled his eyes, but a small smile tugged at his lips. “I still sulk when you make me study.”

She grinned. “Yeah, but now you just pretend you’re too cool to care.”

A pause.

Her voice softened. “I didn’t expect you to grow up like this.”

Rin tilted his head. “Like what?”

She shrugged, suddenly regretting the way her throat tightened. “I don’t know… taller. Sharper. You just… look more like a man now.”

The words slipped out too easily. She looked away, cheeks warming.

Rin’s steps faltered, just for a second. Then he swallowed. “That a good thing or a bad thing?”

She smiled without looking at him. “A little scary, maybe.”

He didn’t press her for more. But he walked a little closer after that, close enough that their arms brushed occasionally as they kept going.

And she didn’t move away.

The walk stretched on, the humid air pressing in around them. It was silent between them for a few moments, comfortable but still carrying that undercurrent of unspoken things. Rin’s damp hair kept falling into his eyes, and she noticed the way he kept brushing it back, though it didn’t stay put for long.

“Hold still,” she said suddenly, stopping in her tracks.

Rin glanced at her, a little confused. “What?”

She nodded toward his hair. “It’s still wet, right? You’ll catch a cold if you keep messing with it like that.”

Without waiting for a response, she reached up and gently brushed his bangs back, her fingers careful but swift. He froze for a second, surprised by her touch, but didn’t pull away. His breath caught, and he stayed completely still as she tucked a damp strand behind his ear, letting her fingertips graze his skin in the process.

There was a long, quiet pause. She didn’t look at him directly, but she could feel him watching her, as if he was trying to figure out what was going through her head. Maybe he knew, maybe he didn’t.

When she pulled her hand away, she realised her heart was beating a little faster than it should have been, the soft pressure of his damp hair between her fingers lingering in her mind more than it should. She cleared her throat.

“Thanks,” Rin said after a moment, his voice low, quieter than usual.

Y/n smiled faintly, though her eyes avoided his. “No problem. You’d probably walk around like that all night if I didn’t do something.”

Rin didn’t respond at first, but she could feel him getting closer again, the space between them narrowing like it had become so natural to be near each other now. His voice was soft when he spoke again. “You’re different now, too.”

She blinked, glancing up at him, confused. “What do you mean?”

He shrugged, his hands slipping out of his pockets, hanging loosely at his sides. “You just seem different. I don’t know. A little more… I don’t know, sure of yourself? I’m used to you bossing me around, but it’s like… it’s like you know exactly who you are now.”

She chuckled, though the compliment caught her off guard. “I wouldn’t say I’m that sure of myself.”

“Maybe not,” he said with a slight grin. “But you’re still the same. Always looking out for me, even when I don’t ask.”

Her heart squeezed at that, and before she could stop herself, she found her hand gently reaching out again, this time resting on his arm. The moment felt fragile—delicate—and her fingers just hovered there for a second.

“Just make sure you don’t act too grown up for me,” she teased softly, her voice barely above a whisper. “You’ll always be that pouty kid in my mind.”

Rin met her eyes, his usual nonchalance slipping just a little. “I don’t mind being that kid for you.”

There was a beat of silence before she slowly let her hand slide away. The quiet between them felt heavy now—too heavy for a simple night walk. They both knew something had shifted.

As they continued down the sidewalk, side by side, her heart still thumped in her chest. And this time, it wasn’t just from the humidity.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"The Storm He Stepped Into" : Chapter 11

It started raining without warning.

The kind of rain that didn’t ask permission—just crashed down in sheets, soaking through clothes in seconds.

Y/n stood under the edge of the bookstore awning, phone in hand, glaring at the screen.

She was mid-text, mid-regret, mid-what the hell was I thinking replying to him again?

Behind her, footsteps.

She turned—and froze.

Her ex.

He looked a little too smug for someone who’d spent the last six months playing emotional ping pong with her. He smiled like nothing had happened, like he hadn’t ghosted her, gaslit her, told her she was too sensitive.

“Hey,” he said casually, like they were old friends. “Didn’t expect you here.”

“I’m leaving,” she said shortly, stepping aside.

But he stepped in her path, like he still had the right.

“Wait, come on. I just want to talk.”

She shook her head. “I told you we’re done.”

“You always say that.” His voice dropped, slick with that fake charm. “But you’re always so dramatic about things, Y/n. I just think you overreact—”

“Don’t,” she snapped, spine straightening.

But he was too close now, invading that space that used to feel familiar but now felt rotten.

“I’m just saying, if you actually learned to listen for once, maybe—”

“She said no. ”

The voice came from behind, low and unmistakably firm.

They both turned.

Rin.

Holding a dark umbrella that barely shielded him from the rain.

His uniform soaked, rain trickling down his neck.

His jaw was set. Shoulders square.

Eyes like ice. Cold, steady, locked onto the guy like he was just another opponent on the field.

Her ex squinted. “Who the hell are you?”

Rin didn’t blink. “Someone who listens the first time.”

Her breath caught.

Her ex let out a laugh, shallow and loud. “You brought your little brother to fight your battles?”

Y/n swallowed. “Rin—”

“This is cute,” the guy said, turning slightly. “You sent your schoolboy bodyguard?”

He reached for her arm.

But Rin was faster.

Before she could even react, Rin stepped in, hand shooting out to grip her ex’s wrist mid-motion. His fingers locked, firm and immovable.

“Let her go,” he said.

“I wasn’t even holding her—”

“You were about to.”

The guy laughed. “Don’t touch me, you little—”

He tried to shove Rin off.

But Rin didn’t move.

The ex pushed harder—angrier now—but it was Rin who stepped forward, keeping his stance steady, his eyes unreadable, and in a flash of movement, yanked her ex’s arm off her entirely and shifted between them.

Her ex stumbled, clearly not expecting that kind of strength.

“You think just ’cause I’m in school, I’m weaker?” Rin said, voice low. “Try that again and see what happens.”

There was a second—just one—where the ex looked like he wanted to test him. But Rin didn’t flinch. Didn’t blink. The quiet fury on his face said don’t.

The ex scoffed again, but weaker now. Shoved his hands into his pockets and turned around. “She’s gonna come crawling back. You’ll see.”

“She won’t,” Rin said calmly. “Not to someone like you.”

The guy left, disappearing into the rain.

Silence.

Y/n stared at Rin.

Not because he fought. But because he didn’t even look surprised at himself.

“Rin,” she whispered. “You didn’t have to…”

He finally turned to her, still calm. “I did.”

She swallowed. “You… how did you—?”

His eyes darkened. “He doesn’t get to touch you again.”

And then, as if flipping a switch, he quietly extended the umbrella toward her again.

“Come on,” he said. “You’ll get cold.”

They walked in silence for a few moments, rain still thundering around them.

Y/n glanced at him—soaked to the bone, quiet, composed. And yet somehow the most intense thing she’d ever seen.

“You really remember I didn’t bring an umbrella?” she asked softly.

He nodded. “You always forget when you’re distracted.”

“Why were you even near the bookstore?”

“I was around. Just in case.”

She blinked. “You waited for me?”

He shrugged. “I like the rain.”

And she didn’t know what to say.

Because for the first time in a long time, she didn’t feel like the strong one in the room.

She felt protected.

And it was Rin.

Rin, who used to trail after her like a puppy.

Rin, who waited outside her house during her exams just to wish her luck.

Rin, who knew she forgot her umbrella when distracted.

Rin, who didn’t hesitate—not even for a second.

She glanced sideways. He was staring ahead, pretending like this didn’t mean everything.

It was unbearable how calm he was.

And unbearable how not a boy he looked in that moment.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Later that night.

She lay in bed, damp hair fanned across her pillow. She kept replaying it.

The grip of Rin’s hand on her ex’s wrist. The way he stepped forward. The way he didn’t yell—he stilled the whole world.

Her phone buzzed.

Rin:

Did you get home safe?

She stared at the screen, heart thudding.

Y/n:

Yeah. Thanks to you.

Thank you for today. Really.

Rin:

I’d do it again.

A beat passed.

Then...

Rin:

Every time, if I had to.

Her fingers hovered.

She didn’t reply. Not right away.

But her heart did.

Loudly.

Unmistakably.

Next

[roiyoshida]

Between The Lines —Rin Itoshi

All Chapters

"Tied Up in Something New" : Chapter 10

It was a rare afternoon, golden with sunset. Y/n had just returned from a grocery run when she spotted Rin stepping out of his house across the lane. She blinked.

What…?

Was that Rin?

In a tuxedo?

He looked absurdly put-together. Dark navy blazer hugging his frame, shoes shined to the heavens, dress shirt crisp and collar clean. He was even wearing cufflinks—cufflinks. She didn’t even know Rin owned formal clothes, let alone ones that made him look this…

She jogged over, eyebrows raised. “Whoa, okay, sir. Where’s the wedding?”

He looked up at her, slightly flustered, adjusting the edge of his sleeve. “It’s not a wedding.”

“Then what?”

“Some stupid event my parents are dragging me to. It’s for Sae. He’s getting another football award or something.”

She tilted her head. “Why do you sound like you hate him for being good at his job?”

Rin clicked his tongue, clearly annoyed. “Because he’s a jerk who thinks he’s god just because he scores goals for breakfast.”

She smiled, amused. “Wow. You two are still fighting like you’re in middle school.”

“I’m not fighting. He is. I’m just ignoring him professionally.”

She tried not to laugh, but his very grumpy fancy boy energy was too good.

Her eyes trailed down again, noting the uneven knot at his collar. “Okay, Mr. Professional Ignorer—stand still.”

He blinked. “Huh?”

“Your tie looks like it lost a battle.”

She stepped forward and, without waiting, tugged gently at his tie, fingers adjusting the knot with practiced ease. Her brows furrowed slightly as she focused, standing just close enough to smell his cologne—clean, fresh, something green and subtly spiced.

And then she paused.

It hit her mid-motion, soft but sharp.

He smelled… really good. Like something expensive. Not overpowering. Just warm. And… manly.

Rin looked down at her, his expression still, unsure what to do with her sudden silence. “What?”

She blinked. “Nothing.”

“You stopped.”

“I was just making sure it was… symmetrical.” Her voice was quieter now.

She tightened the knot gently, hands brushing the firm line of his chest by accident. He didn’t move.

When she stepped back, there was a slight flush on both their cheeks, though neither of them said a thing.

“There,” she said, brushing invisible lint from his shoulder. “Now you look like someone who actually cares about his public image.”

Rin shifted slightly, looking down at his shoes. “…Thanks.”

She smiled, and just before she turned to leave, she added, “Your brother’s still gonna win the award, you know.”

Rin muttered, “Whatever. I still look better.”

She laughed all the way home, but her heart felt strange. A little fluttery. A little… different.

And Rin?

He tugged at the tie she’d just fixed, like it had suddenly become the most valuable thing he was wearing.

Author notes: Rin in a tux...my most favourite interaction.

Next